Heater cord blamed for fire that injured man

Herald staff

GRANITE FALLS -- A house fire that sent a Granite Falls-area man to the hospital Tuesday apparently was started by a malfunctioning heater cord.The man remained in critical condition Wednesday at a Seattle hospital, officials said.The fire broke out about 11:30 a.m. at the man's home along 130th Street NE, north of town. Investigators believe there was a malfunction in the power cord connected to an oil-filled heater in a bedroom on the second floor. The cord overheated and ignited items nearby.The fire was contained to the second floor, officials said. The house also sustained heavy damage from smoke and water.Crews believe the man may have been trying to extinguish the fire when he suffered smoke inhalation and possible burns.No other injuries were reported.

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